BY F.K MALE: Dfcu Bank Limited has launched its inaugural Report to Society 2025, highlighting its contribution to Uganda’s economic and social development through SME financing, women’s entrepreneurship, community healthcare, enterprise development and environmental initiatives. The report documents the institutions impact beyond conventional banking services, outlining how its financial products, community investments and strategic partnerships support businesses, livelihoods and communities across Uganda.
Speaking at the launch, on Wednesday at Serena Kigo Dr. Winifred Mary Tarinyeba, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of dfcu Bank Limited, said the report was an important step towards strengthening transparency and accountability.
She noted that dfcu’s responsibility extended beyond financial performance to include its contribution to the communities and businesses that sustain its operations.
Tarinyeba revealed that dfcu Bank financed 6,527 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in 2025, supporting businesses across different sectors of Uganda’s economy. She explains that SMEs play a significant role in production, trade, service delivery and employment, making access to appropriate financing essential for enterprise growth.
The Bank’s Women in Business programme has also supported more than 80,000 women entrepreneurs, reflecting its efforts to expand women’s participation in economic activity through enterprise development and access to financial services.
She noted that community healthcare was another key area highlighted in the report. According to the campaign figures, dfcu’s health interventions reached more than 25,000 Ugandans through initiatives aimed at improving access to essential medical services.
Through a three-year partnership with Rotary Uganda, dfcu Bank committed UGX 1 billion towards preventive healthcare delivered through community medical camps. The outreaches provide services including outpatient consultations, diagnostic tests, medicines, dental and eye care, health education and referrals.
Dr. James Ssemwanga, Chairperson of dfcu Foundation, said enterprise development is central to strengthening Uganda’s economy, particularly for businesses that require more than capital to expand. He further noted that since 2018, the Foundation has supported more than 4,000 enterprises and reached over 80,000 beneficiaries, the majority of whom are women and young people.
In 2025, it facilitated approximately UGX 38.08 billion in financing to help enterprises access formal financial services and invest in growth. The Foundation aims to reach more than 100,000 additional beneficiaries between 2025 and 2030 by strengthening enterprises, connecting value chains and expanding market opportunities.
The report also highlighted dfcu’s environmental initiatives, including 62,000 trees reportedly planted or distributed in 2025, as part of efforts to promote environmental stewardship. Meanwhile, Helena Mayanja, Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at dfcu Bank, said the report brought together the institution’s work in SME financing, women’s entrepreneurship, healthcare, enterprise development and environmental initiatives.
Established in 1964, dfcu has supported Uganda’s economic development across sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, education, health, tourism, construction, transport and trade. The inaugural report provides stakeholders with a consolidated account of the institution’s activities and impact, while reinforcing its commitment to transparency, financial inclusion and responsible banking.